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Friday, April 25, 2014

I first was introduced to Younique on a Facebook group for direct sales consultants. I repeatedly saw posts for this "all natural" mascara from multiple consultants. Claims ranging from "all-natural" and "100% natural" to "Vegan" and "opthamologist recommended" were being thrown out there.

When I saw the claims, I was curious. I asked a consultant for more info and she then offered to send me the "best selling mascara" for my blog at no cost to me.

A few days later, I had my Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes.

And then I saw the ingredients list.... While the list is far more "natural" than some other products, the product is far from "all natural" and is definitely not vegan, as it contains beeswax. The consultant force needs to be sure what they are saying is factual. I didn't mind that this was not all-natural, as you want proper preservation and a truly all natural product just can't provide that.

A couple weeks later, I decided to try my new "mascara" for the first time. First of all, this is a three-part process. And step one is RIDICULOUS, as you need to already have a mascara! You apply "your own regular favorite mascara" and let it dry. You then need to apply the "transplanting gel" and then quickly apply the "natural fibers". After that, you repeat the transplanting gel step.

The result? Sticky lashes that were more voluminous, but looked like fake, ugly spider lashes. This look is so unattractive! As a makeup artist, I tell you that pros are NOT using this stuff.

They also felt so sticky and coated. For $29, I was very sorely disappointed because there are SO many better products on the market-- ones that, with the right mascara and an eyelash curler, look gorgeous! There is simply NO need for all of these additional products. I have used far superior $9 drugstore mascaras. The product I was told is a mascara is not a mascara at all, nor does it serve a purpose. Used on its own was probably better than the whole three step deal, but this was still very unimpressive. I am sorry, but they just looked ridiculous. Have you seen the pics on Instagram?

Skip it. Mine was free and even if yours was as well, I cannot recommend this product. There are far better products on the market with better ingredients that will give you gorgeous lashes in ONE step for far less money, that actually *look good* and don't cause irritation. I do not mean to be rude, but I am going to level with you. I have yet to see ONE picture on social media of these lashes that actually look good.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

As a newly chosen Prescriptives Passionista (select Px Brand Ambassador), I am so excited to begin sharing what is new with this fabulous brand and help save you some money, too!

THIS WEEK ONLY, as part of the Prescriptives Friends & Family event, you can save 30% sitewide on everything! Shop www.prescriptives.com to save!
From the revolutionary Custom Blend foundation to Super Line Preventor, *magic Liquid Powder and the other cult favorites, EVERYTHING is included in this savings!The sale ends this Friday, 4/25 at 11:59 PM EDT, so stock up now!

Thursday, April 17, 2014

There are so many wonderful essential oils available today, and many have multiple benefits. We'll learn a brief history of aromatherapy, discuss the difference between essential oils and fragrance oils, and we'll look at some of the wonderful skin care products formulated using essential oils.

What are Essential Oils? The term "essential oil" is a bit misleading, truth be told. An essential oil is actually a concentrated compound and not an oil at all. These compounds come from various parts of plants. They can be extracted from flowers, bark, resin, leaves, roots, and peels. They are typically extracted through a method called distillation. Distillation can occur chemically or through steam and you really want them to be steam distilled. It is not always an easy process, as it is sometimes much more difficult to extract these natural compounds. You can tell how easily an essential oil is distilled by the cost. The more expensive the essential oil, the more difficult it was to extract the natural compounds from the plant.

Essential Oils are very concentrated and need to be diluted prior to usage in almost every instance. The most common method is by adding Essential Oils to what is known as a Carrier Oil. Adding the concentrated Essential Oils to Grapeseed Oil, Olive Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Safflower Oil, Avocado Oil, etc. makes it easy to reap the benefits of Aromatherapy because you can apply the oil right to your body.

Essential Oils are the backbone of a practice known as Aromatherapy.

Quite simply, Aromatherapy is the practice of using Essential Oils in order to promote wellness and good health. Aromatherapy used one of our key senses, that of smell. Your nerve receptors, once hit with a fragrance, send a message right up to something called the Limbic System. This is within the brain and it essentially processes a scent and gives you a certain reaction. This is the system that triggers emotional responses to fragrance. Many people associate a certain scent with a person or memory.

Whenever I smell a certain department store perfume, I am reminded of my late grandmother. She always wore it when I was a child and even though she is gone, I instantly think of her when I smell it. When I smell tulips, I am always reminded of the garden I played in at my childhood home. The salty scent of ocean air reminds me of the summer we lived in Coastal Georgia planning our wedding.

Clearing up confusion when it comes to oils

A common misconception is that popular Fragrance Oils are basically the same as Essential Oils. This could not be more false. Well over 95% of an actual finished Fragrance Oil comes from petrochemicals (crude oil) and are hazardous to your health. These oils are created in a lab and are made to mimic a particular scent. You can buy bottles of synthetic fragrance oil in every type of scent these days--from rose to chocolate chip cookies to pumpkin to the scent of pizza and popcorn. It is important to remember that these highly scented oils serve no benefit, are completely synthetic, and may be very harmful. Even though much has been done to raise awareness of certain toxins, synthetic fragrance oils often contain a deadly range of toxins known as phthalates. That is why essential oils are best.

Favorite Products with Essential Oils

Tata Harper Aromatic Irritability Treatmentis a fabulous essential oil blend containing Roman chamomile, bergamot, and patchouli to work in tandem to ground the mind, provide a bit of cheer, and soothe that tension. Rochester friends can now find Tata Harper at Waterlily at 2383 Monroe Avenue in Brighton.

EO Grapefruit & Mint Body Lotionis a refreshing skin care treatment designed to make your arms and legs silky smooth. Grapefruit and peppermint oils help enliven the senses and make you feel more awake. This is a bargain, too, without sacrificing quality of ingredients!

Badger Organic Headache Soother is the first thing I reach for when I have a tension headache. I swear by this all-natural aromatherapy balm to work its magic on a mild headache. Lavender relaxes, mandarin uplifts the spirits, and the peppermint is stimulating.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Here's a look at my newest bracelets! I am never without bracelets. You'll usually find them in a stack on my arm. Check out some of my latest finds! Best of all, you can purchase all of them in Rochester.

Webster's Julie Rodda of Blue Honey Jewelry is a gem. And she makes the most stunning baubles using vintage components! Find her on Etsy and select local boutiques. I had the pleasure of sharing and event with her and got to meet her the other day. After the guests left, we talked and talked about vintage finds, estate sales, Etsy & more.

Use code PEACE to save 25% in her Etsy shop, too! Be sure to tell her C & G sent you!

I stopped off at Peppermint on Park Avenue a couple weeks ago to drop off some goody bags to celebrate the launch of Tanvi's new line, Asher Bridal, and came out with this. It layers beautifully with all of my Alex and Ani bangles, too! See:

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

I was asked not too long ago about a condition people don't often talk about -- skin picking. The woman I was talking to shared with me how she had been doing this for years and had no idea why. I was reminded of an article I researched and wrote some time ago and have updated it for this blog. Skin picking is something we don't often talk about, but it actually is more common than one would think.

So what exactly is skin picking and, more importantly, why do people do it?

Chances are you are unfamiliar with the word Dermatillomania. The word actually refers to the impulse control disorder commonly known as skin picking. Let’s take a look at this growing form of self-injury.

Skin picking is a very serious problem. It is also very misunderstood. People who have this disorder truly cannot help themselves when it comes to overcoming the urge to touch, scratch, scrape, or pick their skin with their fingernails. Dermatillomania is often closely related to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and people who have this condition find that picking their skin can help alleviate stress or anxiety. They may find the actual act of harming their skin to be soothing or pacifying. Some, though, pick their skin solely out of boredom and do not even realize that they are doing it until the episode is done.

People who engage in skin picking may be so consumed with the act that they spend hours each day doing it. It may negatively impact their relationships with friends and co-workers because so much time is taken up with the picking. Their work and social lives may suffer.

Skin Picking Treatment Options

If you or someone you care about has a problem with skin picking, make an appointment with your doctor. He or she may recommend that you see a psychologist so you can find strategies to control your impulses. Cognitive behavior therapy and SSRI medications such as Prozac are common treatment options for those with severe forms of skin picking.

Unfortunately, so many people believe that if a person wants to stop their skin picking, they can just make themselves do so. It is important to think of skin picking as any other addiction or compulsion. There is no simple fix.

Research shows that a combination of behavior therapy and medication can truly help people overcome Dermatillomania.

Skin Picking Treatment Products

Skin picking often leaves behind visible damage long after the problem has been resolved and picking has stopped. Scars are the most visible aftereffects of skin picking, as is inflammation. Look for soothing, all-natural body oils to help calm the skin. A body cream rich in protective Vitamin E will also help to improve the overall condition of your skin. Until the scars have cleared, a body makeup may be used if the scars are having a negative impact on your self esteem.

Monday, April 7, 2014

You do not have to spend hundreds of dollars on spa treatments to have bright & healthy looking skin! There are some wonderful do it yourself masks using ingredients available right in your own kitchen. Here are some of my favorite recipes I like to whip up for the skin.

1. Cocoa & Milk Face Mask

Pure, unsweetened cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and provides your skin with protective benefits. Milk contains natural lactic acid to help soften and exfoliate the skin, encouraging it to shed dead skin cells. When you mix the two together, you are left with brighter skin and may notice a softening of fine lines. To make this mask, combine the two ingredients to form a paste and then apply to damp skin. Leave on for 5 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

2. Honey Oatmeal Face Mask

Honey is one of nature’s greatest skincare gifts. Not only is it moisturizing, but it also contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties. Oatmeal acts as a gentle exfoliant, revealing smoother and more youthful skin. It also contains selenium, zinc, and copper to fight wrinkles. Combine equal parts honey and oatmeal and stir gently. Apply this mask to damp skin and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.

3. Grapeseed & Blueberry Face Mask

Blueberries are naturally rich in Vitamin C and contain something called anthocyanins, which boost collagen levels in the skin. Grapeseed oil is non-greasy, yet highly nourishing. It it rich is essential fatty acids, making it a superior anti-aging oil. Combine ¼ cup of blueberries and 1.5 tablespoons of grapeseed oil. Puree in the blender. Apply to skin with a facial brush and rinse off after 10 minutes.

4. Papaya Greek Yogurt Face Mask

Papaya is rich in an enzyme called Papain, which helps to slough away dead skin cells to reveal glowing skin. Greek yogurt is protein rich and full of lactic acid. Plain Greek yogurt, when applied topically, can tighten the pores. Simply mix equal parts of the two ingredients and apply a thick layer to the skin. Lie down and relax. Rinse off after 15-25 minutes. For extra brightening, you can squeeze in a bit of lemon juice or pineapple juice.

5. Strawberry & Egg White Face Mask

This is a wonderful anti-aging mask for those who may also be suffering from acne. Strawberries contain salicylins, which are related to beta hydroxy acid. These gentle fruit acids are oil soluble, meaning they can reach into the pores and draw out bacteria. Not only will the mask help treat blackheads, but it can help rejuvenate wrinkled skin. Simply mash some berries and whisk with an egg white to make a tightening face mask. Leave on the skin for 15 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Our slightly naughty doggie after he pulled a 5 pound bag of flour off the kitchen counter while I was outside a couple Decembers ago

One member of the family truly is always there for you.

You know, the one who runs lays across your feet on the sofa? The one who wants to play, exercise, and sleep next to you no matter how their day has gone? Heck, they’ll do just about anything to make you happy.

That describes Cannon, our 10 year old rescue German Shepherd- Lab mix. He's been with us since we adopted him in 2007 and he truly is one of the family.

He is also our gentle giant with a gentle stomach. Right after we found him at the Humane Society, we realized he had a very sensitive stomach. Finding the right food took advice from the vet and trying out different diets.

Finding high-quality, helpful ingredients can be frustrating! It is so necessary, though. A diet formulated with wholesome, natural ingredients could help your dog live a longer, healthier life. Finding GOOD dog food, though, can be a challenge. The stuff at the grocery store just doesn't cut it. It is so full of fillers and corn and it just isn't good for your best pal.

Cannon is grain free. It's so interesting to me because if you've been reading for a while, you know that I went grain free last year and I feel amazing since doing so. Cannon is grain free because it is necessary for his well being. When he eats dog biscuits with grain, for example, he vomits.

Sadly, most dog foods aren’t made up of natural ingredients. I think it's because makers of dog foods just assume we won't look at labels the way we might look at our own food labels--or even with the same vigilance we look at our skincare labels.

Is natural food for your dog just a fad or it is truly important?

Let's take a look--

“Natural products go far beyond just basic nutrition,” says Dr. Al Townshend, staff Veterinarian at Wellness® Pet Food. “Natural diets are designed to provide the very best nutrition and can have significant benefits.”

In fact, according to Dr. Townshend, “natural diets offer ingredients with some important health benefits such as probiotics, those good bacteria that are essential for a healthy immune system and digestive tract; glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health; omega-3 fatty acids or fish oils for heart and kidney health; and added digestive supplements to enhance digestibility to get the very best benefits from quality proteins and fats.”

As a leader in natural pet food, Wellness uses natural, high-quality proteins and fats in their dog food recipes. They also include fruits and vegetables for natural vitamins, minerals and other benefits, especially antioxidants that occur in blueberries, cranberries and some vegetables, which help make their dog food products some of the healthiest options in the marketplace.

Wellness recipes do not include added artificial colors, flavors or ingredients, and they’ve even created a helpful“Check Your Bag” site that you can use to compare their natural dog food to those from some competitors who claim to be natural. It's a great resource and I know you'll be surprised to see how brands compare.

The foods for your dogs from Wellness are stellar. They even have a grain free dog food option for dogs like mine. Do check out their website. Have you tried Wellness? Let me know! And for a store near you, check the store locator guide. For example, locals here will find it at Petco!

Find Wellness on Facebook, while you're at it!*Disclosure- This is a sponsored post. However, all opinions expressed are completely my own, as always.

Disclosure

This blog contains affiliate links. I am a member of the Amazon Influencer program, Share a Sale, and Pepperjam. I occasionally post links via these affiliate programs to products I like. If you should make a purchase after following the link, I earn a commission.